Something that every home owner should do periodically is inspect the water heater for signs of leaks. A bad leak will cost you many times over what a new water heater will run you, if it's let to go for a year or so. If you pay for your water, you're losing money twice. Once because your heater (gas or electric) is having to operate more than it should. And two because you're losing water that you're paying for.

Your Natural Gas Water Heater

First, take a look at the surrounding area beneath your water heater. Is it always wet? A small amount of dampness isn't something to be alarmed about, but standing water may be a concern.

If there is just a bit of dampness, then monitor the water heater over the next month or so to see if it gets worse. The bottom line is that due to the normal reaction of water and metal, the water heater will eventually corrode and it might not take 5 years to do it. So a little bit of dampness is tollerable. If you can see a steady stream, that's another story.

Also, look for rust. If the bottom of the water heater is nothing but rust, that's a tell-tale sign. Has your water bill been rising? That's another clue. These photos show an obvious need. This water heater had been needing replacement for some time.

Let's take a look at how to remove the old gas water heater.